We’ve passed the halfway point in the year, and if you’re also in the middle of your debt-free journey, your motivation may be in a slump. The excitement of starting your debt-free journey may have worn off, and now you’re in the daily grind of paying off those loans and making all the sacrifices you can.
I totally get how hard it can be to keep going when it feels like the finish line is still miles away. But this is the point when you have to dig in your heels and say, “I’m in it for the long haul!” Getting out of debt won’t be easy, so here are five tips for staying motivated as you keep working toward your money goals so you can finish out the year strong.
Remember Your ‘Why’
Everyone has a reason for getting out of debt—people don’t make incredible sacrifices without being driven by something powerful. What’s your “why”? Maybe it’s being in control of your money so you can save for your kids’ college, or maybe it’s being able to financially bless people who need help. Whatever it is, take some time to think, talk, and dream about it again.
Break Down Your Big Goals
Getting out of debt is a huge goal. If you’re doing the debt snowball method, which is what I recommend for ultimate motivation and speed, even just paying off your smallest debt can feel like a big undertaking. Break down your goals into smaller pieces that feel easier to knock out. For example, you could set a goal for the amount of money you want to save by the end of the month or the end of the week. Then, once you hit those smaller milestones, make sure you do something to celebrate that—whether it’s having a family movie night or going on a budget-friendly date.
Rachel Cruze
Author
Rachel Cruze is the host of The Rachel Cruze Show and The Rachel Cruze Show Podcast, and a best-selling author, including “Love Your Life, Not Theirs” and “Smart Money Smart Kids,” which she co-wrote with her father, Dave Ramsey. Follow Cruze at RachelCruze.com and on Twitter @RachelCruze.
